The beloved baseball legend was found unresponsive at his home in Las Vegas, leaving the sports world in shock as details began to emerge.
Fans around the world are mourning the loss of Pete Rose, who held the record for the most hits in Major League Baseball history. He passed away at 83 years old on September 30, leaving behind a legacy that’s both celebrated and complex.
Pete Rose of the Cincinnati Reds bats during a Major League Baseball game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Three Rivers Stadium in 1977 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania | Source: Getty Images
The Clark County medical examiner confirmed Rose’s death after he was discovered by a family member at his residence in Nevada. With an investigation underway, authorities stated that there were no signs of foul play.
The coroner’s office will perform an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death, but as of this writing, details remain scarce. Ryan Fiterman, who represented Rose, has requested that the family’s privacy be respected as they grieve.
Rose had made a public appearance the day before his death, participating in a card show with former teammates, which only made the news of his death more shocking.
His last known photograph was taken at the event, where he was seen with Dave Concepción, George Foster, Tony Perez, and Ken Griffey Sr., all of whom played alongside him during his storied career.
As his passing made worldwide headlines, tributes from various teams and baseball figures began pouring in. The Philadelphia Phillies shared their grief on social media, stating, “The Phillies are saddened to learn of Pete Rose’s passing. He will always be remembered for his grit and hustle, and for playing an integral role in bringing the team its first World Series championship.”
Pete Rose of the Philadelphia Phillies poses for a portrait in the dugout before a season game in 1979 | Source: Getty Images
The Cincinnati Reds, Rose’s hometown team, also issued a statement, with Reds Principal Owner Bob Castellini commenting, “Our hearts are deeply saddened by the news of Pete’s passing. He was one of the fiercest competitors the game has ever seen, and every team he played for was better because of him.”
Additionally, Major League Baseball expressed its sympathies on social media, offering condolences to Rose’s loved ones, his colleagues in baseball, and the fans who appreciated his remarkable skills, resilience, and unwavering resolve during his playing career.
The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum also released a statement. They remembered Rose as Major League Baseball’s all-time leader in hits and games played. Additionally, they highlighted his impressive achievements, including three batting titles and 17 All-Star Game selections.
Other tributes, such as one from the MLFootball account, acknowledged Rose’s death alongside the passing of another sports legend, Dikembe Mutombo. “Today was a very sad day: The sports world lost two absolute icons in Pete Rose and Dikembe Mutombo. Both of them had legendary careers & did so much off the field philanthropically🙏🕊️,” they posted.
The outpouring of grief extended far beyond the baseball community, as fans from all walks of life also shared their thoughts. One fan wrote on X, “RIP Pete Rose! My favorite baseball player of all time. #PeteRose #BaseballHallofFame #AllTimeHitKing.“
Another reflected on the joy of watching Rose during his career and wrote, “I was fortunate to grow up down river from Cincinnati, so I got to see him play often. He was a joy to watch. RIP Pete Rose [sic].“
Rose’s exclusion from the Hall of Fame was a sore point for many online users, who took the opportunity to express their frustration. One fan commented, “They really let Pete Rose pass before putting that man in the Hall of Fame 😔.“
A passionate fan wrote, “RIP Charlie Hustle. Thanks for playing hard every game. You were fun to watch and you were cheated out of your Hall of Fame membership. Those who know, know you are a member in our hearts!!”
Some went further in calling for immediate action from the league. One fan demanded, “MLB Call A Press Conference and Put Him in The Hall Immediately!”
As the sports world processes this loss, attention has naturally turned to Rose’s remarkable career. Born on April 14, 1941, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Rose was a force in baseball from the start.
He began playing youth baseball at age eight and was signed by the Cincinnati Reds by 18. He made his Major League debut in 1963 and quickly became one of the most celebrated players of his generation.
Known for his competitive spirit, he earned the nickname “Charlie Hustle” and went on to break numerous records, including the all-time hits record, finishing his career with 4,256 hits.
Pete Rose, player-manager of the Cincinnati Reds, at bat in pursuit of Ty Cobb’s all-time hit record on July 24, 1985 | Source: Getty Images
Moreover, Rose was an integral part of the iconic “Big Red Machine” teams of the 1970s, propelling the Cincinnati Reds to numerous victories, including two World Series championships. He also contributed to the Philadelphia Phillies’ success in the 1980 World Series.
Philadelphia Phillies Pete Rose in action vs Kansas City Royals in Philadelphia on October 14, 1980 | Source: Getty Images
However, Rose’s career was not without controversy. In 1989, he was banned from Major League Baseball for life after an investigation revealed that he had gambled on baseball games, including his own team’s.
Pete Rose holding an impromptu press conference in the dugout on March 1989 while under investigation for alleged gambling | Source: Getty Images
While Rose denied the accusations for years, he eventually admitted in 2004 that he had bet on games but insisted he never bet against his own team. This ban has kept him out of the Baseball Hall of Fame, which is why fans are now clamoring for the honor.
Regardless of controversies, Rose’s contributions to the sport are undeniable. His work ethic and love for the game earned him a place in baseball history that few can challenge. Furthermore, his relentless pursuit of excellence on the field is a legacy that will be remembered long after his passing.
Our deepest condolences go out to Rose’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
